close friend
Intimate companion
Use `close friend` to describe someone you trust deeply and consider part of your inner circle.
15초 만에
- A person you trust with your deepest secrets and feelings.
- More than an acquaintance; part of your inner circle.
- Used in both casual and professional settings to show bond strength.
뜻
A close friend is someone you trust deeply and share your secrets with. It is more than just a regular friend; it is a person who feels like family.
주요 예문
3 / 6Introducing someone at a party
This is Sarah, she's a very close friend from college.
This is Sarah, she's a very close friend from college.
Explaining a personal absence to a boss
I need to take the afternoon off to help a close friend in need.
I need to take the afternoon off to help a close friend in need.
Texting about a secret
I've only told my family and a few close friends about the move.
I've only told my family and a few close friends about the move.
문화적 배경
In many Western cultures, the term distinguishes deep emotional intimacy from the casual 'friendliness' often shown to strangers. It gained even more significance with the rise of social media, where 'friend' became a generic button, making the word 'close' necessary to identify real-life support systems.
The 'Close Friends' List
On Instagram, the 'Close Friends' feature allows you to share stories with a private group. Use this term when talking about digital privacy too!
Don't over-use it
If you call everyone a `close friend`, the word loses its power. Save it for the people who actually know your middle name.
15초 만에
- A person you trust with your deepest secrets and feelings.
- More than an acquaintance; part of your inner circle.
- Used in both casual and professional settings to show bond strength.
What It Means
Close friend describes a deep emotional bond between two people. It is not about how near you live to each other. It is about how much you trust them. You tell this person things you would not tell others. They are the first person you call with good news. They are also the first person you call when you are crying. Think of it as the 'inner circle' of your life.
How To Use It
Use this phrase when you want to distinguish someone from a casual acquaintance. You can say, "She is a close friend of mine." It works as a noun phrase. You can also use it to explain why you are inviting someone to a private event. It sounds warm and sincere. If you call someone a close friend, you are giving them a high compliment. It shows you value their presence in your life.
When To Use It
You can use this in almost any setting. At a wedding, you might introduce someone as your close friend. In a job interview, you might mention a close friend who inspired your career. It is perfect for storytelling. Use it when you want people to understand the strength of a relationship. It is also great for setting boundaries. For example, "I only share my location with close friends."
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for someone you just met at a party. That would be a bit creepy! Also, avoid using it for a romantic partner unless you are explaining the foundation of your relationship. If you call your spouse just a close friend, they might get offended! Do not use it for colleagues you only talk to about work. That is just a 'work friend.'
Cultural Background
In English-speaking cultures, people have many 'friends' but few close friends. We use the word 'friend' very loosely. We might call a neighbor or a classmate a friend. Because of this, we need the word close to show who really matters. It represents the 'chosen family' concept. In the US and UK, having one or two close friends is often considered better than having fifty shallow ones.
Common Variations
Best friend: The number one person in your life.Dear friend: A slightly more old-fashioned, very sweet version.Inner circle: A group of yourclose friends.Bosom friend: Very old-fashioned and dramatic (think Anne of Green Gables).Good friend: Slightly less intense thanclose friendbut still strong.
사용 참고사항
The phrase is perfectly neutral. It is safe for work, school, and home. It avoids the slangy feel of 'bestie' while still being warmer than just 'friend'.
The 'Close Friends' List
On Instagram, the 'Close Friends' feature allows you to share stories with a private group. Use this term when talking about digital privacy too!
Don't over-use it
If you call everyone a `close friend`, the word loses its power. Save it for the people who actually know your middle name.
Friend vs. Close Friend
In the US, people call everyone 'friend'. If someone says 'We are friends,' it might be casual. If they say 'We are `close friends`,' they really mean it.
예시
6This is Sarah, she's a very close friend from college.
This is Sarah, she's a very close friend from college.
Used to show the longevity and depth of the relationship.
I need to take the afternoon off to help a close friend in need.
I need to take the afternoon off to help a close friend in need.
Using 'close' justifies why the situation is a priority.
I've only told my family and a few close friends about the move.
I've only told my family and a few close friends about the move.
Shows that the information is private and restricted.
You know you're close friends when you don't even knock before entering.
You know you're close friends when you don't even knock before entering.
Highlights the comfort level between the two people.
He was a close friend who stayed by me during the hardest times.
He was a close friend who stayed by me during the hardest times.
Emphasizes loyalty and emotional support.
I'm just having a small dinner with some close friends tonight.
I'm just having a small dinner with some close friends tonight.
Implies an intimate, private gathering.
셀프 테스트
Choose the best word to describe someone you trust with your secrets.
I've known him for twenty years; he is a ___ friend.
While 'near' refers to physical distance, 'close' refers to an emotional connection.
Which phrase fits best in a professional but personal explanation?
I am attending the wedding of a ___ friend this weekend.
'Close' is neutral and respectful, whereas 'buddy' is too informal and 'random' is the opposite of close.
🎉 점수: /2
시각 학습 자료
Friendship Formality Scale
Used with slang like 'bestie' or 'mate'.
He's my bestie.
Perfect for almost any situation.
She is a close friend.
Used in literature or formal speeches.
A dear companion of mine.
When to say 'Close Friend'
Wedding Speech
I've been a close friend of the groom for years.
At the Office
A close friend recommended this book to me.
Hospital Visit
Only family and close friends are allowed in.
Social Media
Sharing a post with 'Close Friends' list.
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Not exactly. You can have many close friends, but usually only one best friend who is at the very top of your list.
Usually, we use it for people outside the family. However, you can say, "My sister is also my close friend" to show you have a great relationship.
Yes, it is neutral. For example, "A close friend of mine works at your company" is a professional way to mention a connection.
The opposite would be an acquaintance (someone you know slightly) or a casual friend.
No, close here refers to emotional distance. You can have a close friend who lives in a different country.
No, nearby friend only means they are physically close to you. It does not describe the quality of the friendship.
No, it is strictly platonic. If you want to imply romance, you would use terms like partner or significant other.
Simply add an 's' to friend. For example, "I am going out with some close friends."
It is equally common and understood in all English-speaking countries, including the UK, US, Canada, and Australia.
No, closely is an adverb. You must use the adjective close to describe the noun friend.
관련 표현
Best friend
Your closest, most important friend.
Confidant
A person you tell your most private secrets to.
Inner circle
The small group of people closest to you.
Acquaintance
Someone you know, but not very well.
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